Wellness

Discover 5 top tips on SPF for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin can be a challenge to manage, requiring careful selection of skincare to prevent flare ups. Trust us, we understand. That's why we purposefully choose ingredients that are proven to soothe your skin and strengthen your skin barrier to prevent irritation.

One crucial product that often gets overlooked when it comes to sensitive skin is sunscreen. Regardless of your skin type, protecting it from the sun's harmful rays is essential, but for sensitive skin, choosing the right SPF is even more critical.

The importance of SPF

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which includes UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin deeply, which can lead to premature ageing and long-term skin damage. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can directly damage the DNA in your skin cells. Sunscreen acts as a shield, protecting your skin from these harmful rays and its unwanted side effects whilst still allowing your skin to reap the benefits of sunshine, like topping up on your daily vitamin D.

Did you know that even on a cloudy winter day, you can still have high exposure to the sun's UV rays? With over 32% of UK adults rarely or never using sunscreen when in the UK despite most burning at least once per year, we recommend wearing sunscreen everyday. Make it a part of your morning routine so you're never without SPF protection.

Understanding sensitive skin and inflammation

Sensitive skin is often characterised by a weakened stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. This barrier is essential in protecting the skin from external factors, such as pollutants, allergens, and UV radiation. When this barrier is compromised, the skin becomes more susceptible to irritants and inflammation.

Inflammation can further damage the skin's barrier function, leading to a cycle that increases the skin's permeability to external aggressors. This heightened permeability allows more irritants to penetrate the skin, causing dry, itchy and inflamed skin.

Struggling with itchy skin in the heat? Discover 3 of Sarah's top tips to calm and soothe irritation.

Why sensitive skin needs extra protection

Sensitive skin can be easily irritated by sun exposure, leading to inflammation that further damages the skin's barrier function. SPF plays a vital role in breaking this cycle by providing a shield against UV radiation, a significant trigger for skin inflammation. Daily UV exposure can exacerbate sensitive skin issues, leading to uncomfortable flare-ups. Regular use of SPF helps to prevent these reactions by providing a protective barrier.

Choosing the right SPF for sensitive skin

For sensitive skin, we recommend looking for a broad-spectrum, fragrance-free formula that's dermatologically tested. This means your skin is protected from all harmful UV rays whilst also preventing any irritation from essential oils or added fragrances.

Sensitive skin also benefits from extra hydration. Look for a sunscreen that includes moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to help maintain skin moisture and support skin barrier function, like the By Sarah Serene Daily SPF 50+. For an extra hydration boost, try using the Reviver Hydrating Mist in your routine - perfect for repopulating your skin's microbiome and keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day.

Incorporating SPF into your daily routine

When it comes to SPF, consistency is key. Make applying a generous amount of sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your daily skincare routine, even on cloudy days or when you're indoors. For the face, 2 teaspoons is usually enough. You may even want to carry your SPF with you on hotter days for touch ups on-the-go.

When it comes to sun protection, you really can't get enough. Embrace sun safety to truly protect and support your skin by wearing your favourite sun hat and coolest pair of sunglasses. Share how you're choosing to embrace sun safety with us @bysarahlondon on Instagram, or email us at care@bysarahlondon.com. We would love to hear from you.

By Sarah